Excitement is reaching a fever pitch as evidence surfaces that the Nintendo Switch 2 is already in the hands of retailers ahead of its highly anticipated launch.

Since the official reveal last month, Nintendo has pulled out all the stops to promote the Switch 2. From hands-on events to engaging developer interviews and advertisements on their Nintendo Today! app, they've left no stone unturned.

But passionate fans are hungry for more than just marketing hype. Some dedicated enthusiasts started lining up for their chance to buy the new console as early as April!

Now, a leaked photo purportedly from a Target employee shows a shipment of Switch 2 consoles that recently arrived at the store. This tantalizing glimpse underscores just how close we are to the official release date.

The image, originally shared on Reddit but since deleted, depicts unmarked cardboard boxes in a storage cage. According to the source, the store received 40 units split evenly between standalone Switch 2 consoles and the Mario Kart World bundle.

Although the poster didn't stay anonymous for long, the buzz is still alive on social media, with YouTuber Jake Randall also sharing his own sighting of Switch 2 stock at a Target.

Interestingly, some boxes weren't even concealed, and while the stock was secured, the cage was left accessible on the shop floor. This only fuels the speculation and the playful jokes about sneaking off with one!

Of course, anyone thinking of making off with a console should think twice; reports suggest the Switch 2 will require a substantial day one patch, akin to the Wii U, and will likely not function online immediately.

Yet, with the ingenuity of fans, leaks and unboxing videos could very well hit the internet sooner than intended.

The journey leading up to the Switch 2's launch has been rife with speculation and rumors, intensified over the past year. By the time Nintendo showcased the console officially in January, much of its design had already leaked, thanks in part to accessory company Genki, which is now facing legal action from Nintendo for trademark infringement.

With the Switch 2 set to launch next Thursday, June 5, it's almost a given that stores are gearing up with stock—especially in the US, which Nintendo prioritized to sidestep any trade tariff complications.

While pre-orders in Japan have already sold out, Nintendo has assured fans that supply is robust in various regions, reflecting the immense demand.

Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to what is sure to be one of the biggest gaming launches of the year!